MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – Children in Alabama are heading back to school, but with the return comes the spread of viruses and other illnesses.
The Alabama State Department of Health has reported an upward trend in COVID-19 cases since the end of July.
“As school starts, it's not uncommon to see kids spreading it to each other,” Dr. Wes Stubblefield said. “Many of them are in close proximity to each other.”
Symptoms of the flu, COVID-19 and RSV are relatively similar, and Stubblefield said children, teachers and other school staff should stay home if they show any signs of infection to prevent the spread of the virus.
Basic hygiene habits like washing your hands and covering your sneeze or cough into your elbow can help reduce the chance of spreading illness.
Stubblefield said schools have taken measures to increase ventilation in classrooms, which has proven effective in slowing the spread of infection.
ADPH also recommends getting up to date on vaccinations to help reduce the severity of respiratory viruses.
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